This week’s Campus Celebrity not only dreams big, but also works hard to make those dreams come true. She studies hard, plays hard, (and looks absolutely flawless while doing it). She’s an amazing friend, a positive role model, and to be honest… she’s probably going to be your future boss. Meet Geena Langelotz.
What was it like finding out you had been accepted to Ivey?A huge relief! At the same time, it was really weird because I had been working towards it for a long time and felt like I needed a new goal. I actually started studying for the LSAT! But quit that after a month, it wasn’t for me.
Who was the first person you called to share the good news with?I don’t remember calling anyone but I remember I told my parents as soon as I got the email. They took me out for a steak dinner!
You’re on the Ivey Fashion & Retail Conference Executive team and also a Guru. What do those roles mean? What do you do?As the Speakers Chair for the Ivey Fashion and Retail Conference (IFRC), I’m responsible for finding speakers for the conference. With the executive team, we plan a conference for networking and learning more about the industry.
Guruing is similar to sophing but with a few small differences. A large component of the role is offering support throughout the year, especially during first semester and recruiting.
Both roles have allowed me to be more involved at school and meet new people. Last year I found HBA2 support extremely beneficial and felt I wanted to provide the same mentorship to HBA1s this year. This year is probably the most involved I have ever been, which is ironic because for the first time in university I’m not trying to “stack” a resume or application. Although it’s a little stressful, I’m enjoying getting to know new people, planning events, and keeping busy.
What has been the hardest part about being a female in a program dominated by males?Sitting in the classroom or in the auditorium, it’s pretty obvious that the program is male dominated. However, I don’t notice it on a regular basis or feel that it has really affected me. Although the number of girls is smaller, it has created a very close-knit community of women who support each other.
And tbh, I’m really not complaining about the girl to guy ratio…
What is your dream career?I wish I knew! I’d love to have my own company at some point, but for now I’m planning to do strategy consulting.
Where is your favorite place on earth?Paris
You grew up in Winnipeg, what is the biggest misconception people have about Manitoba?This is usually when I would rant, but I’ll hold back. In general people assume that Winnipeg is either a ghetto scary place or a hick town in the prairies. When in reality, it is a combination of the two (I’m kidding, but not really). In all honestly, I think it’s one of Canada’s hidden gems. Winnipeg has amazing restaurants, so much culture, and really creative and great people.
You spent the summer living in Toronto. What was your favourite thing about that experience?Brunch! And the food in general. There were so many restaurants I wanted to try that I didn’t get to opportunity to. I also really liked the independence; although I feel independent at school, it felt different while working full time.
What is one thing no one really knows about you?I really enjoy cooking! I’d rather spend a night in making dinner and watching a move than going out.
I also ALWAYS have a slight hand shake going. My hands are shaking at all points of the day but especially when I’m nervous, hungry, had coffee, tired, scared, holding something heavy, taking a photo, the list goes on. It makes having soup and drinking anything without a lid hard…
What advice would you give to someone thinking about applying to Ivey?Be well-rounded! Leadership roles and extra-curriculars matter as much as marks.
How do you find time to relax?I usually relax at night! I spend most of my time on campus getting stuff done so that when I come home I can gossip with my roommates, play with my hamster, and watch Netflix.
FIRE ROUND
Style Icons: Olivia Palermo and Leandra MedineCelebrity Crush: Mr. Big from Sex and the City (just to clarify – specifically that character, not the actor)Favourite Food: my parent’s home made pizza!Favourite London Bar: Upstairs of JacksThing You Miss Most About Home: Pizza Fridays! And my dog Gracie. Oh ya, and my family…Favourite Scent: L’eau D’issey perfume, my mom wore it when I was younger and now I wear it. It reminds me of home!Wine of Choice: Cloudy Bay! But I’m on a student budget so any sauvignon blanc.Guilty Pleasure: Costco poutine and online shopping